Manchester United defender Chris Smalling was delighted to return to action with a win after suffering tonsilitis over the Christmas period.

The 22-year-old was part of the side which won 5-0 at Fulham before he missed the subsequent league victory over Wigan and defeats against Blackburn and Newcastle.

He was a surprise inclusion at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday as the Red Devils beat rivals Manchester City 3-2 in the FA Cup third round and the defender was delighted to get back into action.

Smalling told MUTV: "It was a frustrating Christmas and New Year for myself as I was pretty much laid up in bed for the whole time.

"I'm fit and well now and I'm back in training so hopefully I'm over it and can play in the rest of the games."

The Red Devils were three-up at half-time on Sunday following a Wayne Rooney brace and goal from Danny Welbeck before 10-man City fought back in the second period to notch twice to set up a nervy finale.

Smalling was delighted with the way Sir Alex Ferguson's side held firm to exact revenge for the 6-1 defeat by their rivals earlier this season.

"We really passed the ball around and showed great intent, we played some great stuff and it was a great first half. They were two great finishes from Wayne and his overall game was brilliant," said Smalling.

"I think all 11 players really produced and, despite the second-half dip, we stayed resilient and the important thing is that we got the win in the end."